November December 2019 Issue

RIOT





When you work with Cohens, you kno w you are
talking with people who care and can answer your
questions. Explain every feature. We not only sell the
best names in the business, but also service and stand
behind them. That makes us different.

Appliances Electronics

Indoor and Outdoor Home Automation,
Kitchens, Laundry, Home Theater, SONY Video
Refrigeration, Dishwashers and TV, Blue Tooth Speakers,
Wine Coolers & Ice Machines Massage Chairs and
Grills – Gas & Charcoal Theater Seating

6 + We deliver con dence.

jackie+luke

wedding

photography

jackieandluke.com
334.462.4439

presents

Saturday, November 23rd • 6–8pm

Tree Lighting • Community Parade • Fireworks Spectacular

14 reply YES ISLAND DELI

Styles and trends to consider CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT • NATURAL

RSVP Gift Guide By: Catherine O’Connor

32 table TALK 14
Island Delight
32
36 in MOTION
Hotworx: Bringing the Heat 36 40

40 now hear this 44
Todd Fulmer and the Lone Wolfe

44 the LIST

A Who’s Who of Young Leaders

54 special feature
Alabama Emerging Artists Show

58 socially SEEN

72 behind the scenes

74 when? what? where?

84 resource DIRECTORY

ON THE COVER

Photo by Studio Panache

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 7



NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 9

from the GIRLS

The River Region Guide
for All Things Social

vol. 12, Iss.6

Well it’s finally here… The Most Wonderful Time of the Year! The family RSVP Montgomery, Inc.
gatherings, delicious meals, holiday parties and all the beautiful decorations 7956 vaughn road, unit 333
make everything jolly and bright! But let’s face it, the hustle and bustle of
shopping can sometimes be stressful. Together, along with some of our favorite montgomery, al 36116
stores, we have created a gift guide full of fabulous gift ideas for everyone on 334.356.4598
your list, hopefully making your shopping go a bit easier. We love introducing
you to new spots and people you may not already know. In this issue, we [email protected]
take you behind the scenes of Hotworx, a new, innovative fitness program www.rsvp-montgomery
that utilizes a combination of infrared heat and isometrics to give you an
amazing full body workout. You’ll meet musicians Todd Fulmer and Kimberly
Wolfe, who bring two vastly different styles together to create something
unlike any other act in the area. Island Delight in downtown Montgomery
is one of our favorite places to eat, offering incredible Caribbean cuisine in a
colorful atmosphere, with Melissa Smith at the helm. Be sure to check out the
professionals featured on “the LIST,” whose contributions make Montgomery
better, and in between your holiday festivities, make plans to go to some of the
fun events listed in our calendar!

Last but not least, we are excited to share that we’ll be moving to quarterly
issues in 2020! Introducing new features and layouts, we promise these seasonal
issues will be worth the wait!

Happy Holidays!

10 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

How old you look is oursHOW OLD YOU ARE IS YOUR BUSINESS...

6727 TAYLOR CT, MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 | 334.284.2800

MICHAEL BENTLEY, M.D., FACS PATRICK BUDNY, M.D., FACS J. DOUGLAS ROBERTSON, M.D., FACS





The wish lists, decision making, financial strain and hustle and bustle of holiday
shopping can easily turn the happiest person into Ebenezer Scrooge. We set out on a
mission to make this year go a little smoother by providing perfect holiday gift ideas for
everyone on your list - your wellness obsessed friend, cat-loving mom, sophisticated
boss, tough-to-shop for man, ultimate host and more. Find gifts that surprise and
delight and make everyone’s spirit bright this season. Here’s to getting a head start
so you can really enjoy the things that make this the most wonderful time of the year!

By: Kim Traff | Photos by Studio Panache

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | THE GUYS

Because a precise trim makes all the difference, we recommend the
Manscape Grooming Kit. As a partner of the Testicular Cancer Society,
they are on a mission to save balls! Dillard’s

Most men (even if they aren’t a smoker) enjoy the taste
and feel of a good cigar. The Cigar Shoppe can help you
pull a variety of cigars and accessories. Be sure to ask about
commemorative series, too! The Cigar Shoppe

the guys If he’s been a really good boy, reward him
with something he will keep forever. TAG
With the Keysmart Pro, you’ll never have to help Heuer is definitely the best in swiss luxury
him find his keys ever again. Say goodbye to bulky, timekeeping. Ware Jewelers
noisy keys. getkeysmart.com

You can’t go wrong with anything by Beretta. For
the one you LIKE, gift this patch trucker hat or tech
shirt. For the one you LOVE, go all out with this
rustic Maxwell Field Tote. Dillard’s

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | SENSATIONAL SCENTS

This exclusive Soleil Gold and Shimmer
Set by Tom Ford will complete the
perfect, luminous look for eyes, lips and
face. All of the contents are fabulous but
the body oil is the bomb! Dillard’s

Nest candles might have the most beautiful packaging ever. With notes SeSncseanttisonal
of pomegranate, mandarin orange, pine, cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and
amber you will be glad winter is coming! Bella Boutique

These White Barn three wick candles
come in dozens of flavors, have a great
price point and will burn for 45 hours!
(catch those awesome BOGO sales,
too!) Bath & Body Works

Jo Malone’s Christmas Candle Collection We are absolutely OBSESSED with this unisex fragrance.
comes with five miniature candles, all in It not only smells amazing, but it works off your
different scents (grapefruit, green tomato leaf, pheromones and gives you your own unique scent. Buy
sweet almond & macaroon, frosted cherry one to give and one to keep! The compliments won’t stop.
& clove, peony & blush suede) and make a We promise. Bella Boutique
gorgeous hostess gift! Dillard’s

The Votivo holiday collection of diffusers and
candles will bring your holiday trimmings to life.
Available in Joie de Noel, Red Currant, Christmas
Sage and Icy Blue Pine. Candle Cabin

16 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

Host One
To Remember

StellaArtois.com
ENJOY RESPONSIBLY © 2017 Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A., Stella Artois® Beer,
Imported by Import Brands Alliance, St. Louis, MO



RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | HEALTH & WELLNESS

A customized gift for the man in your life, who at
times may need a little dark chocolate or coffee to get
through a hectic day. loveandfoundbox.com

Organize your mind and start the new year right
with this Kate Spade meal planner and adorable
journals. Jo Wells

Holistic living isn’t anything new, but when it comes to oil Dillard’s has jumped the cannabidiol bandwagon
blends, nutritional supplements, skincare solutions and with a line of wellness and beauty products! We
natural preparations for the home, we vote Young Living as love this hemp gift set complete with Essential
number one! youngliving.com Foot & Heal Cream, Overnight Repair Serum and
Nighttime Relaxation Cream. Dillard’s
WHeellanltehss&

Whenever you crave pure relief from stress, Give the gift of health with a membership
try Aveda Stress Fix, a skincare collection infused to Club Pilates. Add in a pair of socks, an
with an aroma proven to reduce feelings of stress. insulated bottle and padded loops to make this
Doug’s 2 Salon & Spa a complete gift. Club Pilates

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 19

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | HOST WITH THE MOST

Carly and Ed Gannon are giving chefs
the upper hand with their premium olive
oils and vinegars. Buy the big bottles
or customize a gift set of miniatures!
Vintage Olive

Not only do Yotam Ottolenghi’s cookbooks
have amazing recipes, but they add vibrant
color and good conversation to your
kitchen. Leola & Croff

Your bubbly has never looked tHhoesmt owsitth
sexier! Any of the contemporary
handcrafted glass pieces by Everything from the Southern Living Kitchen
Annieglass are sure to land you a Collection will look great on your counters. Useful
kiss under the mistletoe! and beautiful… yes please! Dillard’s
Al’s Flowers

We’re pretty sure this gold leaf painted glassware created by Eileen
Morrison will make all spirits brighter! Al’s Flowers

20 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

CandleCHRISTMAS FAVORITES AT
Cabin

PEPPERTREE SHOPPING CENTER
8135 VAUGHN RD | 334.244.2201

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 21



RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | COMFORT ZONE

Everyone will fight for a corner of this super soft
blanket by UGG. Tis the season for snuggling!
Dillard’s

Barefoot Dreams is known for being the
world’s softest and most luxurious brand.
Feel cozy all day in this chic leapord poncho.
Dillard’s

Comfort
Zone

This soft, plush chenille scarf is These leapord sheepskin UGG
the perfect accessory to add a little slippers offer comfort and style year-
warmth and style to your outfit. round! Dillard’s
Gap

Pair some leggings with this fabulous Echo
Design Topper. Boasting an off-the-shoulder
neckline and draped silhouette, it will flatter
figures of all kind. Welle Studio.

The naturally moisture-wicking socks by
Bombas will keep your feet dry and cozy.
Originally made for winter days, you will be
a fan of these all year! Bombas.com

This luxurious satin sleepwear by PJ
Harlow is lightweight and drapes beautifully
against your body. So soft it will be your
everyday loungewear! Candle Cabin

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | ON THE GO

ABLE handmade leather totes This popular Hammitt clutch
are both gorgeous and functional converts into a stylish crossbody
for everyday use or travel. Welle bag and features suede lining, two
Studio large zipper compartments and
an exterior cell phone pocket.
Dillard’s

Anyone who loves travel will appreciate On the Go
the versitile style of this Moleskin planner
and Field Guide by Wild Sam, which Calling all wordsmiths – if you’re a fan of Scrabble or
include personal stories, hand-drawn word games, then you’ll enjoy Bananagrams. It comes in
maps and more. Leola & Croff a cute banana shaped carry pouch, perfect for chucking in
your luggage. Bananagrams.com.

The Zoppen travel wallet is equipped
with an RFID-blocking shield, ID
holder, card slots, a section for money
and a compartment big enough to
fit a passport or a phone. It comes in
36 colors, too! Decisions, decisions!
Amazon.com

Brown-bagging it has never looked so gourmet with
this Kate Spade lunch tote, and go ahead and make it
personal with this insulated initial tumbler. Cheers to
whatever it is you like to drink cold! Jo Wells

This canvas bag is the perfect tote for the beach, travel and
everyday errands. The newly renovated store calls you to make a
day of it! Grab a cup of joe, read a little and pick up awesome gifts.
Books A Million

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FOR THE FLAVORS OF

holiday parties | gift certificates | la jolla togo

8147 Vaughn Road Montgomery AL 36116
334.356.2600 lajollamontgomery.com

In the Know.
In the Now.
In your Inbox.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter at
www.rsvp-montgomery.com

26 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | HOME DECOR

Bring the outdoors in with these lush,
vibrant, preserved boxwood wreaths
and topiaries. This classy gift can be used
year-round. Al’s Flowers

These Lounging Reader whimsical bookends by
Uttermost feature an antiqued silver leaf finish with a
light gray glaze and will dress up any piece of furniture.
Bill Barganier Interiors

This set of hinged flower vases features Home Decor
an antique gold finish and includes 10
vases of varying heights that can be
moved to create different looks.
Al’s Flowers

This stunning frame is a beautiful
accompaniment to any variety of
interior design and instantly updates
the room. Peridot Home

Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Laura
Park’s original art, her collection of
decorative pillows will bring vivid color
and beauty to your surroundings.
Bill Barganier Interiors

Local artist Jessica Markwell collects Art by Susan Hood makes
and hand paints books and will a beautiful gift and the price
customize them with your favorite point will have you buying
phrase or quote and a variety of multiples! Candle Cabin
embellishments. Jo Wells

RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | ADDED ACCENTS

These adorable geometric stretch bracelets are
super affordable and look great layered or solo.
Great gifts for your stylish friends that love to be
colorful! Welle Studio

PB&J Collection offers one-of-
a-kind jewelry and statement
wear. Payton will customize each
piece to the length of your choice.
PBJcollection.com or
Jo Wells

This cuff bracelet is heavily plated The David Yurman Helena Collection,
in 18K gold with an antiqued patina inspired by Helen of Troy, is the perfect
giving it a gorgeous, mellow tone. wrist ornament for the sophisticated
Customize it with your engraved woman in your life. Ware Jewelers
monogram in a classic block font.
ExVoto Vintage Collection

AcAcdednetds Using fantastic colors to create
trendy, fashionable and beautiful
designs, Kendra Scott jewelry is famous
around the world! Dillard’s

This handmade necklace by Erica
Honaker features a deer pendant that
we love. Jo Wells

28 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

HGoliLdayAM

8129 Vaughn Rd. | Montgomery, AL 36116

334.272.8116



RSVP GIFT GUIDE 2019 | STOCKING STUFFERS

Looking for a secret santa gift that will WHAT? a cloth that removes
stir excitement? These cat paw chair ALL your makeup without
socks, cat butt magnets and mini cat the use of cleanser or
vacuum will have cat lovers meowing for chemicals, just water? Well folks,
more! Books A Million we tested it and it is legit!
Bella Boutique

Baby it’s cold outside! Keep your
mittens on with this handsfree Zibaar
Bluetooth Beanie that earned 5 stars in
product reviews! amazon.com

Gift someone tickets to our incredible
Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This season
offers a variety of shows from holiday themes
to Dr. Suess’s “Cat In The Hat.” asf.net

SSttuofcfekrinsg Stir the Christmas conversation with a
glass that could have many interpretations.
patriotdepot.com

Have fun with friends and channel
your sixth sense with these fun,
mysteriously spot-on tarot cards and
amplify your energy with these salt
crystals. Books A Million

This year, OPI is making holiday dreams come
true with the Let’s Be Friends Hello Kitty 2019
collection! Ulta

ISLAND DELIGHT

CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT • NATURAL JUICE BAR

By: Catherine O’Connor

32 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

to try unfamiliar foods. Notwithstanding, one
of her most popular dishes, outside the jerk
chicken of course, has come to be the oxtails,
braised in juicy goodness and served alongside
a healthy portion of rice, beans and cabbage.
A good hearty meal to say the least. Pair it
with something from the juice bar or go for a
Caribbean soda or ginger beer to complete the
experience. Melissa says while she refuses to
conform to the expectations of an American
palate in her cooking, the one concession is her
peach tea, which represents the island, but also
speaks to local taste.

Other menu items include classic beef patties,
salads and soups, curry, fried chicken, fish
and vegetable dishes for those sticking to the
greens. A little festival bread or island slaw on
the side wouldn’t hurt anybody.

N estled in the heart of downtown, along Dexter
avenue, sits an escape outside your comfort
zone, ready to transport your taste buds to
a more tropical locale. Island Delight opened its full
service restaurant in 2017, after it’s first iteration, a
counter service lunch bar, became a niche sensation at
local Maxwell Air Force Base.

Melissa Smith, owner, operator, and chef, says her
husband and co-owner, Richard, convinced her to cook
up a jerk chicken storm one night for a group of his
fellow officers. Her spice sensation went off with a bang
and Melissa was urged to open her own restaurant and
share those flavors on a regular basis. Years later, the
original outpost is still open for lunch, run by Melissa’s
parents, while she keeps up with what’s going on
downtown, serving lunch and dinner to couples and
crowds (a private event space in the back accommodates
large parties or spillover from the main dining room on
busy nights).

Although completing its third year downtown, with
many reviews spreading by word of mouth, Melissa still
once saw a time when Southerners were a little skeptical

Since 2000, Melissa and her family have called
Montgomery home, after her husband’s military
service carried them away from Jamaica. She
confides what she misses most about her homeland
is the people - the way happiness comes easy in the
Caribbean. You can’t step off the plane and smell
the air without feeling it. Until that vacation day
comes, we can all at least revel in a little island
delight any day of the week. Hours vary.

Every colorful table at Island Delight features a bottle of Locations:
scotch bonnet hot sauce, commonplace in the Caribbean and 36 Dexter Ave #104 | 334.356.5641
known for its sweet heat. Sometimes Melissa makes the drive 323 Air Base Blvd. | 334.264.0041
to the farmer’s market in Atlanta to find specialty Jamaican
goods, including those prized peppers, to bring back to her
Montgomery-based kitchen.

When asked about her culinary background, Melissa credits
her hard-working mom for instilling a natural and intuitive
approach to cooking food in the Caribbean as a young girl.
Without any recipes, she formed a flair for flavor by sheer
experimentation. When she didn’t know how much spice
to add, her mother told her to try a little bit and see how it
tasted or until “the ancestors whisper in your ear,” Melissa
recounts, laughing.

34 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

HOLIDAY WISHES

FROM KYNARD KORNER VINTAGE BOUTIQUE

Kynard Korner
BVOIUNTTAIQGUEE

HeatB R I N G I N G T H E
If you’re anything like me, then going to the gym isn’t by both franchise owner, Angela Burgess, and general
an easy sell. A big open room filled with mirrors, and manager, Claudia Parker Barbee. Cara discovered
machines and other people reminds me of being made Hotworx after her sister asked, “Do you want to try
to play sports in P.E. It’s not necessarily my scene. that hot thing with me?” She’s converted ever since,
spreading the recommendation to her husband and
However treating my body well and exploring means son, and now, me. Hotworx brings her to Montgomery
of both keeping it strong and connected to a clear mind every week from nearby Auburn. “It’s the best workout
are important to me. My fitness routine is lacking for I’ve ever had,” she raves.
sure, and in need of an energetic jolt, shall I say some
heat. The less equipment and more privacy, the better. Before we got set up, having arrived in time for her
favorite session, Hot Barre None, she urged me to
I didn’t know what to expect when entering Hotworx, drink up the water. Temperatures inside the sauna
located east near the intersection of Vaughn and Taylor start rising slowly, but heat up to 120 degrees. A word
Road. I was intrigued by the rows of cabin-like saunas to those who want to give this thing a go -- hydrate
lining the hallway and by a woman walking in from (and my personal advice, eat breakfast and maybe
the parking lot with a smile, Cara O’Toole, recognized skip the coffee). I had to step out for a moment just

By: Catherine O’ Connor | Photos by Nick Frontiero Productions

to catch my breath. It’s not your mama’s midday sun or support (I’m fairly out of shape) assured me it’s not just
typical summer sweat. In fact, infrared technology, unlike okay for my muscles to be shaking and the sweat to be
the sun, heats your body from the inside out, giving you dripping, but exactly what this is all about.
a burn that lasts. It’s almost like a cast iron skillet that
builds its power gradually but retains and radiates heat. A perk of these virtual instructors, versus self taught
methods or other in-person classes, is that services are
The internal temperature your body reaches during the offered 24-hours/7 days a week so you can be there day
work out is credited with improved blood circulation, or night to best suit your schedule. Plus there’s something
lower blood pressure and muscle recovery, all for everyone to try, whether for a regenerative, relaxing
regenerative processes for the body, while the afterburn experience, or a more intense, muscle building workout.
when the session is over is said to triple the calories you Cara tells me this is the kind of exercise she can see
shed in the room. (For this reason, it’s recommended that herself doing for a lifetime as she gets older.
you refrain from sudden A.C inoculation after the session
to reap all the benefits…. Burn, baby, burn!) Although there is an FX zone in the very back of the
facility for open-air workouts with bands, weights and
A variety of timed activities are offered, from Hot Yoga, ropes, the main attraction is to be found within the
Pilates, Warrior, Cycle and more. Each room and workout warmth of the infrared saunas.
offers 3 seats (or mats, if you will) with a timed, digital
instructor. Victoria, Amee and April were our on-screen Hotworx is available to Montgomerians as a franchise,
guides for the day, whose much needed cheerleading thanks to its local head, Angela. She works full time at

Pepper tree Plaza

334.440.8111

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 37

the Hyundai plant, but wanted something
that better aligned with her interests and
passion for fitness. She found her way to the
Hotworx website, and after correspondence
with the company and a few attempts at
funding before the doors finally opened,
here she is today with another location in
the works (or worx I should say) to open in
Opelika. Cara’s commute for her workout
will become a little more convenient in the
near future.

Hotworx can be found across the nation in
a variety of states. Memberships are offered
for Montgomery, but also for any location
that you may be near you.

Happy Holidays

FROM THE ADVANCED PRACTITIONERS FOR THE RIVER REGION

Jo Guice; President Nurse practitioners are licensed, expert clinicians
with advanced education (master’s and/or doctorate
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primary, acute and specialty health care services.

LET US HELP YOU MAKE GOOD, HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES.
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NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 39

By: Kelly Baughman | Photos by Jonathon Kohn

Todd Fulmer and Kimberly Wolfe, better known on
the River Region music scene as Todd Fulmer and
the Lone Wolfe, are bringing a fusion of two vastly
different styles together to create something unlike any
other act in the area. With influences of jazz, rock, country
and more, all wrapped in a classically trained package, their
music transcends the lines of genre while keeping their
deeply rooted faith at the forefront of everything they do.
Fulmer, a Fort Worth, Texas native, got his start in music
at an early age of five as a pastor’s child singing in church.
Shortly thereafter, his family relocated to the Montgomery
area to become an active part of the youth ministries
at Eastern Hill Baptist Church. “I continued singing
throughout my childhood and when I was 16, decided to
pick up the guitar for the first time,” he says. From there he
began writing his own music and started several rock bands,
not yet knowing where his musical path might lead him.
In 2004, Fulmer began leading worship at First Baptist
of Opelika and said that it allowed his confidence in front

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 41

of a crowd to grow. “In the bands I had played in before, Upon returning to Montgomery, Wolfe performed in a
we performed indie and alternative rock. With the music jazz duo around town with fellow jazz musician, Pedro
ministry, it allowed me to reconnect to my hymnal roots and Louis Mayer. Credited to her experience in Nashville, she
incorporate my soulful influences like Aretha Franklin, Stevie soon became the Executive Director of the Montgomery
Wonder, Lionel Richie and James Brown. I guess I’d consider Symphony, putting her own performance career on the back
myself a little bit of a ‘Heinz 57’ artist… I’m a little bit of burner to further the ambition of others.
everything,” Fulmer says.
Fate, and a mutual friend,
In stark contrast to brought the now best friend
the rock and soul roots duo together at Cloverjam in
of his music, Wolfe’s Cloverdale Park. “They thought
musical style emerged we’d be a great musical pair
from classical training despite our different sounds,
as a violinist and pianist, so we got together and our
thanks to her musical music blended together so well.
parents. “My mother We come from such different
was a classically trained backgrounds, but it made for an
pianist and her father interesting combination,” says
played guitar. I followed the duo.
in her footsteps at the
age of five. Voice lessons Fulmer expresses that their
followed at 13, and I connection and communication
began studying opera,” as friends is evident in their
she says. Her opera music, and although they
studies continued at write songs individually, they
Tanglewood Institute are huge supporters of one
at Boston University, another’s music and strive to
where she also discovered incorporate both of their work
her love for jazz. “My into their sets.
influences were Ella
Fitzgerald, Louis The two are finalists in the
Armstrong, Dean Martin upcoming singer/songwriter
and Frank Sinatra, and competition at The Sanctuary
I was able to create a on November 17 at 6 p.m. “We
fusion of opera and did Todd’s songs in the first
jazz in my style,” Wolfe round, and we are going to do
explains. my songs in the finals. It’s the
first time we will be putting my songs out there, so I’m very
Wolfe went on to say that her Uncle Tommy, who was also a excited,” Wolfe says. “It’s a great platform for us and for our
fiddle player, turned her on to the likes of Hank Williams and music to be heard,” adds Fulmer.
classic country and ‘gypsy jazz,’ which ultimately influenced
her to move to Nashville. The Sanctuary Showdown was open to all singer/songwriters
with the judges pick and the crowd favorite advancing from
“I had some people who were in the music industry who each preliminary round. Each slot consisted of a fifteen
invited me to do some studio work, and I found that I really minute set in an acoustic “unplugged” style. The grand prize
liked the business side and the behind-the-scenes of the that Fulmer and Wolfe hope to claim in the finals is studio
music world.”

42 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

recording time at Technical Earth Recorders. Fulmer will soon be taking a music ministry position with
Legacy Anglican in Montgomery for the next six months and
Fulmer says that his cousin works as a record producer in intends on continuing to write songs and perform with the
Nashville and has encouraged him to record music on his duo.
own over the last several months, and Wolfe agrees his talent
needs to be taken to the next level. “I really want him to The two say what keeps them focused is their blessings from
record an official album by this time next year. This studio God, and they are thankful for the gift of music and being
time will be a perfect push in that direction,” she explains. able to tell a story that touches others within a matter of
minutes. “If you can tell a compelling story in a song that hits
Fulmer intends to focus on the performance aspect of his someone in a special way, that is a true gift. Says Fulmer,
music, while Wolfe hopes to pursue more demo and studio “we are doing our best to give a part of ourselves to others
work when not working together as Todd Fulmer and the through our music, and we just hope people like it.”
Lone Wolfe.
For booking information contact
She’s happy to see groups like The Highwomen, made up of 334.462.3683
Amanda Shires, Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris and Natalie
Hemby, who are taking the music scene by storm and Upcoming Performances
showcasing empowered, classically trained female musicians Nov. 22 @ AlleyBAR 9-12 p.m.
in mainstream music. She hopes to promote the same
positivity here in the Montgomery area. Dec. 20 @ TASTE 7-10 p.m.

Holidays on

The Harriott

Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21
Bring your family, friends or
coworkers and enjoy a holiday meal,
live entertainment and cash bar. $48
per adult/$38 per child. Boards at
6:30pm, cruises 7pm-9pm

For tickets or information on holiday party
rentals, visit funinmontgomery.com

44 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

By Kim Traff
Photos by Jackie+NOLVu/kDeECP2h0o1t9oRgSrVaPph4y5

FRANK AMAN

Montgomery Veterinarian, Frank Aman, is bringing smiles to humans
and wagging tails to patients at his clinics and beyond. Frank attended
Auburn University for his degree in Zoology and continued at the
Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2010 with his
DVM., before returning home to Montgomery to begin his career. In
2018, after 10 years in the field, Frank and his business partner started
Partners for Pets Veterinary Hospital in East Montgomery and have
since added a location near Zelda Road in Midtown. While he says
fear of failure was a big obstacle for him when it came to opening his
own practice, he knew that with hard work and dedication he’d be
able to uphold his responsibility to his loyal employees and provide
the best care possible to his clients and their “fur babies.” Frank says
being able to see a patient walk in sick or hurt leave healthy and
happy is rewarding, and building relationships with clients from all
socioeconomic backgrounds share a common bond makes him proud.
Frank serves as vice president of the Central Alabama Veterinary
Medical Association and is a former chairman of the YMCA Boys
Work Committee, helping raise over 35,000 dollars for kids from the
River Region. Frank and his wife Laura attend First United Methodist
Church, while one of his favorite things to do is support his sons, Frank
and John Carter, at baseball and soccer games, always with enthusiasm
and sometimes even a cold beer in hand.

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the LIST

BRANDI SMITH

A graduate from Troy University, Brandi Smith worked in sales and
management for years before discovering her passion in residential
property. Her first investment home turned into several prior to
helping others find their dream home. As a trusted real estate agent
in the River Region for 13 years, Brandi’s experience and knowledge,
along with honest communication with home buyers earned her the
award “Best of the Best” 2019 Real Estate Agent by the Montgomery
Advertiser. Although real estate can be risky without a consistent
salary, the rewards of this career outweigh those risks, including a
flexible schedule that allows Brandi to spend time with her 13-year-
old daughter, Kaitlyn. Earlier this year, Brandi joined the sales team
at Hampstead Community Realty, which also received an award for
“Best Community Development.” Brandi shares that being involved
with new construction sales has created a fresh enthusiasm in her
career. Committed to maintaining integrity as a professional, she
serves on the public relations and grievance committees at the
Montgomery Area Association of Realtors. Outside of work, you
can find Brandi supporting her daughter’s endeavors, which involve
performing on the Saint James dance team, ice skating and traveling
to meet social media icons. She also loves working out and shopping
and admits that she helps keep Target in business! While she may be
petite in stature and appear a bit shy, Brandi’s loyalty to her family,
friends and Alabama Football is fierce.

ASHLEN RENE LOBAN

Ashlen Rene Loban never lets“no” slow her down as she climbs her career
ladder with determination. Her positive outlook and willingness to do
extra work helps her achieve success as the Administrative Coordinator
for Manufacture Alabama, the only trade association in the state dedicated
to the needs of manufacturers and their partner businesses. Although
somewhat new to her role, she already loves how she can combine
her two passions, people and law, where her mantra is: passion for law,
compassion for people. Ashlen completed her undergraduate studies
at Faulkner University with a bachelor’s in legal studies, and currently
pursues her master’s in criminal justice and public administration at
Liberty University. Her largest career influence is her aunt, an attorney
practicing governmental law inWashington D.C.Ashlen says,“I have always
admired how she is able to balance the life of a fashionista and unmatched
work ethic within the field of law.” In addition to Ashlen’s professional
work, she has contributed as a volunteer with the Montgomery Youth
Court and participated in Emerge Montgomery, while serving as an active
member at Fresh Anointed House of Worship. At home, Ashlen and her
husband, Shaka Loban, care for their daughter, Kaylen, while Ashlen helps
with her daughter’s classroom at school. Her other hobbies include being
a “part time” entrepreneur, creating and designing media kits and social
media branding for influencers, bloggers, aspiring entrepreneurs and small
business owners. She also enjoys motivating, empowering and affirming
her online community of girlfriends, “Hey Girl Hey United,” along their
personal journey of self-love.

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the LIST

MANUEL ALEJANDRO ESPINOSA

Montgomery’s popular El Taco Shop owner Manuel Alejandro
Espinosa, better known to most as Alex, is living proof that hard
work pays off. As a resident of Montgomery for over 10 years, Alex
spent eight years working in the restaurant industry before taking
the leap to open a place of his own. With English as his second
language,Alex feared he wouldn’t be able to effectively communicate
with his customers and that people wouldn’t take him seriously as a
businessman in the community. With hard work and perseverance,
Alex tackled this obstacle and says he loves seeing the joy his food
brings to customers and prides himself on building a relationship
with those who walk through his doors. He appreciates guests in
his “home” and considers the food he serves to them an act of love,
from his family to theirs. Alex attributes the success of El Taco Shop
to the people in the community who have given support since day
one, and makes giving back to the community a high priority in his
life. As active members in the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce,
he and his wife Leidi, advocate for the city’s economic growth and
success of local non-profit organizations.Alex and Leidi’s son,AJ, who
attends Bear Exploration Center, ignited their desire to get involved
with Montgomery County Public Schools. Proud to call Montgomery
home, thanks in part to its hospitality and community support, Alex
spends his free time renovating his home at the gentle urging of his
self-proclaimed “boss” Leidi, restoring a 1971 Ford Mustang and
enjoying the newest addition to their family, baby Andrew.

KELLY HEAD

When looking for a favorite spot to grab the perfect drink, the right
bartender can make your experience worth coming back again
and again. That’s the case for Kelly Holley Head, manager and head
bartender at Taste.With over 20 years of experience in the industry,
Kelly is not only the best at what she does behind the bar, but she’s
also the best in “the biz” when it comes to being a people person.
Her passion for her craft and ability to always remember the faces
and favorite libation of her customers is one of the best things about
her! Kelly has made lifelong friends with many of her customers
and is thankful to share her passion and expertise at Taste, where
owners Clint and Ginger Hahn have cultivated a concept and wine
selection unlike anything else in town. Kelly’s expertise doesn’t stop
with wine. She’s also been referred to as “beer whisperer” because of
her extensive knowledge of hundreds of different brews. Whatever
the drink of choice, Kelly loves matching each customer to something
she knows they’ll love. While the weekend and late hours required
in this industry can be challenging, the continued support of Kelly’s
husband, Andy, and son, Houston, is what keeps her balanced. When
she’s not at work, she loves spending time with her family at the lake
or the beach, but her customers never let her stay gone for too long!

48 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019

SLADE EILAND

Few people have watched Montgomery grow and evolve like third
generation driller, Slade Eiland. As the lab manager and lead driller for
Quality Assurance Testing Labs (QATL), Slade has started on the literal
ground floor of retail shops, hotels, apartments and more from the
streets of Montgomery – including the Eastchase development – down to
Alabama’s southern shores and back up to its northwestern hills.There are
few places in the state, be it a restaurant, school or road that he didn’t have
his hands on when getting built. Slade started at QATL while earning his B.S.
in Applied Computer Science from the Troy University, Montgomery. But
you could say that playing in the dirt was in his blood, and Slade followed his
father and grandfather into determining initial building design parameters
and providing trustworthy testing services that are necessary to move a
project from flat dirt to bustling locale. When not manning the drill rig,
Slade can be found enjoying Montgomery’s entertainment district, golfing,
fishing and drumming along to anything from The Beatles to Metallica, all
which he learned to play by ear. He is also a member of the American
Society of Engineers, theYoung Professional Board of Greater Montgomery
and the Home Builders Association. His volunteer work includes the Make-
A-Wish Foundation and the Children’s Miracle Network. Slade credits his
parents for the support, advising and love that made his accolades possible.
So whenever you get excited about that hip spot being built down the road,
know that Slade was probably there making it all happen.

NOV / DEC 2019 RSVP 49

PERRY HOOPER

Perry Oliver Hooper III,Sports Medicine Orthopaedic Surgeon at Southern
Orthopaedic Surgeons in Montgomery, helps people get moving again. He
uses his surgical expertise to decrease pain and restore mobility for his
patients so they can enjoy life to the fullest. Having been at Auburn as
an undergraduate, and then Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
and the Cleveland Clinic for medical training, Perry says it was his time
at Auburn that shaped him as a man, and his experience at the Cleveland
Clinic that molded him into a professional. Perry says what makes his job
so rewarding is seeing the excitement and passion return to the eyes of an
athlete or patient after recovery from an injury or surgery. Getting athletes
back on the field or patients back doing what they love is why Perry chose
a career in medicine. He comes from a long line of Montgomery public
servants and hopes that his expertise on the sidelines of high school,
collegiate and professional level sports will help him give back to the
athletes of our city and beyond. Perry enjoys watching the growth in our
city with his pediatrician wife,True.Their three children, Charlie, Perry IV
and Reese keep them busy when not in the office and as a new resident
of Hampstead, he and True are often seen behind a jogging stroller. He
jokes that they cry if they stop so it’s a whole new version of motivation!
Welcome back to Montgomery, Perry!

50 RSVP NOV / DEC 2019